Used Zero Turn Mowers Under $1500
If you are on a shoestring budget and would like to get a zero-turn mower, you may get a used one.
Although it may not be like the new one, it will still be good enough to suit your personal needs.
Some used zero turn mowers still have powerful engines for quick and efficient mowing to save time and effort.
In this article, we bring you a complete guide of using and buying used zero-turn mowers under $1500.
Click here for the Cheapest Zero Turn Mowers Available on the Market
5 Used Zero Turn Lawn Mowers Under $1500
1. 2014 John Deere Z235
The John Deere Z235 zero-turn mower runs on a Kawasaki engine for powerful mowing operation. The 42-inch edge cutting system offers accurate and even cuts on lawns.
Its ergonomic control levers with dampeners provide maximum comfort while mowing. It has a top speed of 7 mph to enable you to mow in a short time.
2. 2014 Craftsman Zero Turn Mower
The Craftsman Zero-turn (2014 model) is well-liked for its efficiency and durability, even if it is available as a used mower.
The lawn mower has a solid construction and it is very comfortable to use. It comes with a 42-inch cutting deck which ensures efficient mowing on lawns.
3. Great Dane Zero-Turn Mower
Used lawn mowers under the Great Dane brand are rated as one the lowest prices on the market. They provide superb cutting performance on lawns.
Great Dane zero-turn mowers ranging from 41-42 inches run on Kohler engines while the 48-61-inch sized ones are powered by a Kawasaki engine.
4. Exmark Zero Turn Mower
Exmark offers zero-turn lawn mowers that feature industry-leading ergonomics and a wide range of cutting widths.
An example is the Exmarx Quest which is one of the top-notch Exmarx models available on the market. The zero-turn mower model is well-liked for its cutting quality, value and durability.
The Quest E-Series is available from 42-50 inches and mows up to 2.8 acres per hour. It has a ground speed of up to 7 mph to enable you to mow in a short time.
This model is easy to operate and comfortable to ride, thanks to its padded control handles and ergonomic operator seat.
5. 2004 Dixie Chopper LT-2000-50
Dixie is one of the popular brands that offer used zero-turn mowing machines at low prices. It runs on a Kawasaki engine for a smooth mowing operation.
It has a 50-inch cutting deck for superior grass cutting performance on medium and large-sized yards.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Used Zero Turn Mower Under $1500
There are some factors to consider before purchasing a used zero-turn lawn mower, regardless of whether you need it for commercial or residential purposes. Learn more about Where to Buy Used Lawn Mowers.
Here are some factors to help you select the best zero-turn mowing machine that will suit your mowing needs:
Engine Condition
For optimal engine performance, inspect the engine condition of the used mower. You can go for zero-turn mowers that use engine brands such as Honda, Kohler, Kawasaki and Briggs and Stratton.
These brands are well-known for their durability, longevity and reliability.
They can be easily fixed or replaced. However, engines that are not common might be difficult to replace or fix.
Condition of the Mowing Deck
It is also important to check the deck of the used zero-turn lawn mower. Some homeowners may have misused the mower deck.
A used zero-turn mower that runs on rocks, hard debris may have bent blades, bent shafts and other deck problems.
As a result of this, the mowing machine won’t be able to cut the grass uniformly. You should also check the mower deck for cracks. If any of these issues occur, you may need to pay more for maintenance tasks.
Overall Condition of the Parts
Make sure that you troubleshoot the machine before buying to know if it is functioning properly or not.
Check the condition of the mulching system, blades, deck and air filter before buying.
If you fail to check crucial components, you may end up getting a lawn mower with broken components. The cost of maintaining it may be the same as getting a new mowing machine.
Reason for Selling
It is important to ask the seller the reason for selling the lawn mower. Do not purchase it if the person wants to sell a defective mower.
If you get a problematic lawn mower, it won’t perform well and will cost you a lot of money to maintain it.
Price
Make sure that you get a used zero-turn mower at a reasonable price. In addition, the mower should also be in a good condition.
Used Zero-Turn Mower Price Guide
Before getting a used zero-turn mower, you need to follow specific guidelines. The first thing to do is to check the mower’s age.
The original MSRP should be the starting point if the unit is less than seven years old.
Some mower conditions help to determine the price ratios of the used zero-turn mower. These conditions are as follows:
Rarely Used Condition
The condition of this used mower is good as new. If you want this kind of mower, the mower’s value can be +10% to 15% of the purchased price.
In some cases, lawn mowers that are usually in good condition do not need any repairs. However, it is a bit difficult to get a used zero-turn mower for this condition.
Generally Good Condition
A lawn mower in this condition isn’t as good as new. Although it is a bit used, it will still work well.
Zero-turn mowers in this condition can have minor issues like scratches. You may not detect any mechanical issues because the mowing machine has been kept in good order.
The machine has been properly maintained and necessary repairs have been carried out on it.
Average Condition
This type of mower has been regularly used for mowing operations. It has begun to age but you will still be able to predict by the mower’s appearance.
A lawn mower of this condition can still run efficiently, and it still possesses superb mechanical condition.
You may find small scratches or dings on the mower but the mower’s outlook will still appear good.
If you get a mower in this condition, it may not require an immediate need for service.
Below Average Condition
A mower in this condition requires regular maintenance. It might run well but it requires minor fixes or cosmetic corrections.
This mower may show signs of irregular maintenance but it appears to operate well.
For a machine of this condition, you need to make a few repairs.
Generally Poor Condition
This is a very common condition when you are planning to purchase a used zero-turn mower.
A mower of this condition is terribly worn. This mower will perform fairly but will need moderate mechanical repair or cosmetic repair before regular use.
Rough Condition
Mowers in rough condition are the worst condition of a used zero-turn mower.
This type of mower runs badly and requires significant maintenance tasks. Furthermore, they have multiple mechanical problems.
You will discover that the mower has been neglected and abused by appearance. The mower may have deck and air filter problems.
This is also a common condition but it is not advisable to get a machine for this condition.
What Is The Average Life of a Zero Turn Mower?
The average life expectancy of a zero-turn mower is about 2000 hours if properly maintained.
If you troubleshoot, repair and operate it regularly, it can last for more hours than the average life.
How Much Do Zero-Turn Mowers Depreciate?
The mower may depreciate by 31 percent in its first year. The percentage might increase in the next few years after the first year of usage.
Although these machines vary from brand to brand, the average percentage is 31 percent in the first year and reaches a rate that will not reduce vertigo (from 6%-4%).
Below are some zero-turn lawn mowers’ first-year rates by the manufacturers:
Hustler- 30%
Exmark- 30%
Simplicity- 31%
Gravely-29%
Cub Cadet- 29%
Kubota- 30%
John Deere- 30%
Cheapest Zero Turn Mowers Available on the Market
If you are looking for the cheapest zero-turn mowers available on the market, we have compiled a list of zero-turn mowers that will serve as a good investment for you.
Ready? Let’s dive right into it:
1. Ariens IKON XD-52 Zero-Turn Mower
The gas-powered mower is an efficient and reliable riding mower suitable for medium and large-sized yards.
Pros:
- The zero-turn mower has a high back seat with armrests for comfort and support while mowing.
- It performs well on thick and tall grass.
- The Ariens IKON XD-52 has a powerful engine that ensures efficient mowing on lawns.
Cons
- Not ideal for smaller yards.
- Accessories such as mulch and bag kits are sold separately.
Design
The zero-turn mower features large tires to aid maximum traction while mowing. Its high back seat with armrests provides stability and comfort and while mowing.
The X-52 model is powered by a 24HP Kohler engine for a smooth mowing operation.
Cutting Power & Performance
The gas mower is equipped with a 52-inch mower deck for efficient mowing on medium and large-sized yards.
The blades are sturdy and sharp enough to mow shrubs, thick and tall grasses.
Its cutting height can be adjusted from 1.5-4.5 inches to suit your varying needs.
Speed
It has a ground speed of 7mph forward and 3mph reverse to allow you to mow in a short time.
Accessories
The riding mower is supported by a host of accessories such as a 2-bin bagger, mulch kit, and headlights for increased lawn mower performance.
2. Ariens Edge 34 inch 20 HP (Briggs) Zero Turn Mower 915251
The zero-turn mower has enough capacity to maintain a well-manicured lawn.
Pros:
- The Ariens Edge 915251 runs on a versatile 20HP Briggs and Stratton engine for smooth mowing operation.
- The adjustable high-back seat enhances utmost comfort while mowing.
- The gas-powered mower has a compact design for easy navigation in tight areas.
Cons
- Accessories such as mulch and bag kits are sold separately.
Design
The 915251 model is equipped with a high back seat for comfort. It is powered by a 20 HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin engine for a smooth mowing performance.
Its compact design enables the zero-turn mower to easily navigate tight areas and can take up a smooth footprint for storage.
Cutting Power & Performance
The gas-powered mower comes with a 34-inch cutting deck for efficient mowing on lawns. Its cutting options range from 1.5-4.5 inches for excellent cut quality.
Speed
The zero-turn mower offers a forward speed of 6mph and a reverse speed of 3 mph to ensure fast mowing.
Accessories
Homeowners can attach accessories such as mulch and bag kits for a healthy-looking lawn.
3. Husqvarna Z142
The Husqvarna Z142 is a durable zero-turn mower capable of handling residential turf cutting.
Pros:
- The Husqvarna Z142 runs on a 17 HP Kohler engine for a smooth and decent lawn mowing experience.
- Its reinforced steel stamped cutting deck is made of heavy flat-stock steel for maximum durability.
- The gas lawn mower comes with an air mowing induction technology to improve grass lift.
Cons
- The zero-turn mower does not have a bagging option.
- It does not have armrests.
Design
The gas-powered zero-turn mower runs on a 17 HP Kohler engine for top-notch mowing performance.
Its air induction mowing technology draws air from the cutting deck to enhance superior cuts on lawns.
Cutting Power & Performance
The riding lawn mower has six cutting positions which can be adjusted from 1.5-4 inches to enable you to cut the grass to an ideal height.
Its 42-inch reinforced steel stamped cutting deck enhances great grass-cutting performance.
Speed
It has a top speed of 6 mph which allows you to mow in a short time.
Accessories
The Z142 model supports a full line of accessories such as a zero-turn mower, tow behind striping kit and mulching kit.
4. Ariens Edge 34 inch 19 HP (Kohler) Zero Turn Mower, 915243
The Ariens Edge 915243 is ideal for yards up to 1-2 acres. Its intuitive controls enable you to easily maneuver through the yard for a smooth and fast cut.
Pros:
- The Ariens Edge 915243 has a high back seat for utmost user comfort
- The zero-turn mower is equipped with a 34-inch cutting deck which enhances a superb grass-cutting performance.
- It runs on a 19hp Kohler engine for a powerful operation.
Cons
- The zero-turn mower does not come with anti-scalp wheels.
Design
The Ariens Edge 915243 features an adjustable high-back seat for maximum user comfort.
It runs on a 19 HP Kohler engine to deliver a consistent cut on lawns.
The tires offer great traction and a smoother ride and its handy power brakes are incorporated into the handlebars for easy accessibility.
Cutting Power & Performance
The mower’s 34-inch cutting deck ensures consistent grass-cutting performance. Its cutting heights range from 1.5-4.5 inches to suit your mowing needs.
Speed
It has a maximum forward speed of 6 mph and a maximum reverse speed of 3 mph to enable you to mow in a lesser time.
Accessories
The zero-turn mower supports accessories such as mulch and bag kits to aid the versatility of the mower.
Conclusion
It is important to follow the recommended guidelines before buying a used zero-turn mower. We have provided enough details to make your decision-making easier.
If you need a used zero-turn mower that can offer maximum efficiency and versatility, we suggest that you try the 2014 John Deere Z235. It delivers a top-notch performance within the best budget deal.